One of the most common dental questions I am asked around Piedmont is "Do
you do 'regular' dentistry?" What people want to know is if I limit my practice
to beautifying front teeth. The answer is that I work on all teeth, but the
question itself points out common misunderstandings of cosmetic dentistry.
While it is true that we can do some amazing things to transform smiles,
I like to think of Cosmetic Dentistry as so much more than dental plastic
surgery. To me it is therapeutic restorative dentistry of the highest order.
Cosmetic Dentistry is also a consumer-oriented approach of asking what the
patient wants and giving it to them. Much of the care that cosmetic dentists
provide is "regular" dental work using today's best materials and techniques.
The advantages are 1) no mercury 2) less drilling 3) teeth become stronger
4) less sensitivity 5) it's beautiful. Cosmetic Dentistry also pays very
close attention to bite problems, frequently solving TMJ symptoms as well
as cross bites and overbites.
Many cosmetic dentists provide an experience you would not normally expect
of a dentist in order to pamper the patients. Imagine an environment that
feels more like a spa than a clinic. The magazines are all brand new. Refreshments
are served. The dentist gives you his/her home phone number. You are seen
on time and you are the only one being treated. Your care can be completed
in 2 visits. At the end of your visits, you are given a gift bag and a hot,
scented wash cloth to freshen-up. If you like, you are given a sleeping pill
so that you sleep through your visit. Most importantly, you are treated as
a VIP whose feelings are valid and respected.
If this is what you are looking for in a "regular" dentist, then Cosmetic Dentistry
is for you!
Dr. Bernstein is a longtime Piedmont
resident in private practice 2 blocks from Cal Piedmont. He is a clinical
instructor at the world renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental
Studies and his practice focuses on Cosmetic Dentistry and 5 star guest
services. Dr. Bernstein can be reached at 848-SMILE (848-7645) and at www.allnewsmiles.com.
